Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai 2022 Date Timings Guide

Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai 2022 refers to the full moon (Pournami) day in the Tamil month of Karthigai when devotees in Tiruvannamalai celebrated the sacred festival of Karthigai Deepam at the famous Arunachaleswarar Temple. This event has immense religious significance for Shaivite devotees and is marked by special temple rituals, Girivalam (circumambulation of the Arunachala hill), lamp lighting and community gatherings.

What Is Karthika Pournami?

Karthika Pournami is the full moon day that falls in the Tamil month of Karthigai, typically in November–December of the Gregorian calendar. On this day, devotees observe fasts, perform special pujas and light oil lamps in homes and temples. In Tiruvannamalai, it coincides with the Karthigai Deepam festival — one of the most spectacular religious events in South India.

When Was Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai 2022?

In 2022, the full moon day of the Tamil month Karthigai — corresponding to the Karthika Pournami — fell in early December 2022. According to Tamil calendar sources, the Karthigai Deepam festival was celebrated on 6th December 2022 (Tuesday), which is also the Karthika Pournami day that year.

Festival/Event	Date (2022)	Day
Karthika Pournami / Karthigai Deepam	6 Dec 2022	Tuesday

This date also aligns with the full moon (Pournami) in the Tamil calendar month of Karthigai, signifying the moment when the moon is at its fullest.

Timings For Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai 2022

Temple Timings

The Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai is open for devotees throughout the day of Karthika Pournami with extended darshan hours to accommodate large crowds. Regular temple timing on Pournami days generally runs from early morning until late evening.

• Temple opening: ~05:30 AM IST
• Temple closing: ~08:30 PM IST
• Extended darshan on special days like Pournami: till ~07:45 PM IST

These timings are based on the official schedule from the Arunachaleswarar Temple Pooja Info.

Key Ritual Timings On 6 Dec 2022

Traditionally, the main rituals and events took place in the early morning and evening:

• Early Morning (Bharani Deepam): ~4:00 AM — Special lamp lighting inside the temple sanctum.
• Evening (Maha Deepam): ~6:00 PM — Lighting of the Great Beacon atop the Arunachala hill.

These ceremonies are the spiritual highlights of the day and attract thousands of devotees to witness the divine light.

Significance Of Karthika Pournami In Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai is a sacred Shaivite pilgrimage site centered around the Arunachaleswarar Temple and the holy Arunachala hill. On Karthika Pournami, lighting lamps and performing Girivalam (circumambulation of the hill) are considered deeply auspicious.

The word “Arunachala” itself signifies the divine manifestation of Lord Shiva as a column of fire. On this full moon night, the hill is believed to radiate spiritual energy, and the sight of the Maha Deepam atop the hill is a profound moment for devotees.

How To Participate In Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai

1. Plan Your Visit Early

Given the high influx of pilgrims, make travel and accommodation arrangements well in advance — especially if you intend to be in Tiruvannamalai on 6th December 2022. Hotels and guesthouses often book out quickly during festival time.

2. Follow Temple Protocols

At the Arunachaleswarar Temple official site, poojas are conducted multiple times daily. Ensure you arrive ahead of key rituals like Bharani Deepam and Maha Deepam for best participation.

3. Participate in Girivalam

Girivalam — walking the ~14 km path around Arunachala hill — is a cherished practice on Pournami nights. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and be prepared for crowds. Many devotees begin just after sunset and continue through moonlit hours.

Tips And Best Practices

• Carry light offerings (flowers, camphor, oil lamps) to the temple for puja.
• Dress modestly and follow local temple decorum.
• Stay hydrated during Girivalam especially if walking long distances.
• Reach the temple before peak rituals start to avoid long queues.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Waiting till late night to begin Girivalam — it gets crowded and difficult to complete the circuit.
• Not checking temple darshan timings — some gates may close earlier than expected due to crowd control.
• Leaving valuables unattended during long rituals or night walks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Karthika Pournami The Same As Karthigai Deepam?

Karthika Pournami is the full moon day in the Tamil month of Karthigai. In Tiruvannamalai, this day is celebrated as Karthigai Deepam — the main festival event involving lamp lighting and temple rituals.

Can I Do Girivalam At Any Time On Pournami?

Yes, Girivalam can be done at any time on the Pournami day, but most devotees prefer the moonlit evening and night for the best spiritual experience.

Do I Need Prior Booking For Temple Darshan?

General darshan at Arunachaleswarar Temple is usually free and on a first-come-first-serve basis. For special sevas, donations or tickets may apply as per temple norms.

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